Symptoms

• Many people with generalized anxiety disorders worry so much that they eventually experience chronic irritability, problems concentrating, a lack of motivation and a loss of interest in life. They usually have physical symptoms in addition to their mental ones, including fatigue, headaches, muscle aches and tension, difficulty swallowing or a feeling of a lump in the throat, trembling or twitching, lightheaded feelings, shortness of breath and sweating. They may have sleep disorders as well. In addition, these people may have frequent bouts of gastrointestinal pain, diarrhea and feelings of nausea.
  
  

Significance

• Even with all these symptoms, usually people with generalized anxiety disorders function reasonably well in everyday life. They continue with their social relationships and work efficiently at their jobs. It can be tiring and distracting, however, to feel anxious most of the time and people with the disorder are not performing as effectively as they could be otherwise.
  
  

Characteristics

• Generalized anxiety disorder develops gradually and usually occurs for the first time in childhood or adolescence. According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, the disorder affects nearly 7 million adults, over 3 percent of the United States population. Women are twice as likely to have anxiety disorders as men are and the problem tends to run in families. Studies of twins indicate a genetic component.
  
  

Behavioral Treatment

• Generalized anxiety disorders respond well to cognitive-behavioral therapy, in which a person talks with a therapist, learning to view situations differently and practicing anxiety-reducing techniques. These techniques may include stress management, an exercise program and meditation. Caffeine and other stimulating drugs, which include some cold medications, can aggravate anxiety disorders, so people with this condition should avoid those substances. Behavioral treatment typically takes 3 to 4 months.
  
  

Medical Treatment

• Sometimes medication is provided in addition to therapy, although for most people with generalized anxiety disorders this is not necessary. Anti-anxiety medications prescribed typically are fast-acting sedatives which decrease anxiety within 30 to 90 minutes. Antidepressants also are prescribed, and these influence chemicals called neurotransmitters. Antidepressants can take several weeks to work fully.